The University of Hawaiʻi (UH) and Ocean Networks, Inc. (ONI) have jointly unveiled a US$120 million public-private partnership. This collaboration aims to construct a state-of-the-art submarine optical fibre cable system, known as the Hawaiian Islands Fibre Link (HIFL), connecting the Hawaiian Islands and significantly enhancing high-speed broadband internet access across the state.
The HIFL project is a pivotal element of Connect Kākou, the state’s broadband initiative, identified as a top priority by the administration of Governor Josh Green. The initiative, led by Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke, focuses on ensuring reliable and affordable high-speed internet access for residents from all backgrounds.
Governor Green expressed enthusiasm, stating, “This inter-island cable system will leverage the once-in-a-generation federal investment in technological infrastructure and position our state for long-term economic growth.” The resulting network, accessible to all carriers, is expected to support diverse telecommunications needs, including healthcare, education, research, public service, commerce, and government uses.
ONI will spearhead the supply, construction, operations, and maintenance of the inter-island cable system. Partial funding will be sourced through a federal grant, with ONI securing the remaining funds through private equity and secured debt. Upon completion, HIFL will serve as the inter-island backbone for Connect Kākou, processing high volumes of data with minimal delay.
Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke highlighted the comprehensive nature of Connect Kākou, revealing, “Connect Kākou has over US$500 million in federal grants, state funds, and private matching funds available as we work towards connecting the unconnected and making sure everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed internet.”
HIFL is designed as a carrier-neutral, open-access system with landing sites on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi. The project, overseen by the UH System Office for Information Technology with support from the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii, is anticipated to be ready for service in late 2026.
Garret Yoshimi, UH Vice President for Information Technology and CIO, expressed delight in partnering with ONI, emphasising UH’s role in connecting Hawaii to the future. Cliff Miyake, VP Business Development of Ocean Networks, Inc., echoed the sentiment, stating, “The HIFL system will provide a critical improvement to the broadband infrastructure for the State of Hawaii.”
